Description
This hearty Goulash Casserole recipe combines ground beef, vegetables, and tender elbow macaroni in a rich tomato and paprika sauce, baked to perfection with a melted cheddar cheese topping. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that serves 8.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
Pasta and Sauces
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Seasonings and Broth
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown Beef and Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly. Once cooked, drain any excess grease. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables are soft and tender. Stir in the paprika, dried oregano, and black pepper to season the mixture well.
- Simmer Sauce: To the skillet, add the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and low-sodium beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni directly into the skillet with the beef and tomato sauce. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
